Help - Ripped Mainsail

[Russ Hval <hval@tvratings.com>]

Hello everyone,I'm a novice sailor who got into sailing with Sunfishes and Hobies as a kid, and recently bought a 1983 Hunter 34 with my brother-in-law. Having a great time learning the boat. However, on Friday night after a sunset cruise, we were heading home into the wind and neglected to lower the main as we motored in. We sheeted it in and thought we could let it go until we turned the corner and began sailing again, but then it ripped on us, about a 4 footer, just below the second reef point. It was an original sail that we knew wouldn't last forever but hoped it would last awhile.I'm seeking advice on how to handle this. Is it worth repairing and keeping as a backup? On the replacement sail, is it OK to go with a used one? We're not racers and just need something to keep us moving, and new ones look pretty expensive.It's a great boat and we're having lots of fun. This is just a setback! Thanks for any and all comments.Russ

 

[Frank Pratt]

Sailmaker

Take it to your sailmaker and get an estimate, then make your decision new or repaired. New will last longer and could make your boat speed go up.

 

[Ken Palmer]

Can be patched

The original main sail on my 1981 H33 had a tear in a similar place a couple years ago. I had it repaired at the local canvas shop, and used it for a season. I ordered a new sail over the winter, and really enjoy the performance of the new sail.So, it can be done and it's not too expensive. You will notice a huge difference in performance when you replace your 17 year old sail.Ken Palmer, S/V Liberty

 

[Steve Dion]

Need to have it repaired anyway.

Russ:You are going to need to get it repaired anyway. Most of the sail lofts are usually 3-6 weeks out on getting you a new one made. Usually can get some better deals in the off season. When you start sail shopping, be sure that you compare apples to apples. Same quality and weight of the sail cloth and all the same features (single/double reef, battens, cars, lazy jax or dutchman etc etc). I would suspect that you are looking at about $2000 for a new main. There are some very good materials made for the cruising clan. Stay away from the overly expensive racing stuff. Usually good to find a sailmaker that knows your cruising waters so they can make a sail that works best for your area.

 

[John K Kudera]

Used Sail?

I have the sail you need,E mail me at jkksail@tidalwave.com